The Ministry of the Deacon
What do deacons do?
Serve . . .
Directly under a bishop
All people
Especially the poor, the sick, the weak, and the lonely
Lead . . .
By engaging all believers in living out their baptismal covenant to serve Christ in all persons, loving their neighbors as themselves, striving for justice and peace among all peoples, and respecting the dignity of the earth.
Interpret . . .
To the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world
Advocate . . .
On behalf of those who have no voice, nor anyone to speak for them or articulate their truth
Show . . .
God’s people that in serving the helpless they are serving Christ himself
Proclaim . . .
The Good News of Jesus in worship and life
Symbolize . . .
By proclaiming the Gospel in the midst of the people that they may carry it into the world, leading the people’s prayers for the concerns of the world, demonstrating the hospitality of Christ in setting the table for Eucharist, and dismissing God’s people to their ministries in the world.
The diaconate in The Episcopal Church is an historic, ordained ministry. It includes a ministry of liturgy, a ministry of care to and with those in need, and a ministry of leadership in service and advocacy on behalf of the marginalized. [Association for Episcopal Deacons]